HBO presenter John Oliver has once again provoked Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling regarding the issue of prohibiting transgender athletes. In a recent episode of Last Week Tonight, Oliver condemned the right wing's fixation on banning transgender individuals from participating in sports, including at the school level. In response, Rowling took to X (formerly Twitter) to urge the television host to "read the f**king room."

What happened in Last Week Tonight's latest episode

Oliver referenced his previous disagreement with Rowling on the same subject. Last November, the author had criticized Oliver for expressing his support for transgender athletes, asserting that they did not endanger the safety or fairness of cisgender women athletes. In response, Rowling had claimed that Oliver was indifferent to the injuries, humiliation, and lost opportunities faced by female athletes.

In a recent episode, Oliver reignited the controversy by mentioning Rowling again. He remarked, “It feels a bit strange to receive such criticism from the creator of Harry Potter, especially since I resemble what would have happened to him if he had been left in that cupboard for the rest of his life,” while affirming his stance on the matter from last year.

Watch the video here:

Rowling retaliated on social media

In a recent tweet, Rowling responded to Oliver's latest position by stating, “I comprehend why individuals like Oliver, who have repeatedly ridiculed anti-science advocates on the right, initially compromised their principles. They were concerned about jeopardizing their careers. Adopting trendy anti-women's rights stances was simply part of the professional landscape. However, it is now essential to recognize the prevailing sentiments."

Rowling and Oliver have both secured agreements with HBO. Currently, Oliver's Last Week Tonight is airing its 12th season on the network, while Rowling is in discussions to adapt the Harry Potter franchise into an HBO series, which is anticipated to begin production this year and premiere in 2026.

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